Restorative justice as an alternative sentencing option in South Africa: A different approach to crime

Abstract

Concerns with the current criminal justice system in many countries around the world have triggered an interest in alternative methods of dispensing justice. This is because of its failure to effectively reduce crime and to meet the needs of those who are affected by crime. The search for alternative ways of dispensing justice has led to the emergence of restorative justice. Restorative justice is, in fact, not a new concept in the history of dealing with crime. It is similar to African traditional processes of justice. Restorative justice has gained popularity worldwide as an approach to justice that does not only emphasise a different response to crime, but as also having the potential to address the shortcomings of the current criminal justice system. This study examines restorative justice as an alternative sentencing option in South Africa.